Digital BW, The Print

Monday, September 2, 2002, 8:11:38 PM, nedbuntline2002 wrote:

n> I've had a darkroom for quite some time, and I'm rather proficient at 
n> the old techniques.  But I'm getting shoved (mostly by publications) 
n> into thinking about digital.  I've made the decision that I would 
n> like to give it a try, I'm just not sure if now is the time.

n> It seems that printing is not quite there yet for black and white.  
n> Even the latest Epson 2200 line is still just a little bit away from 
n> perfection.  I do almost all 4X5, with some 35mm thrown in -- and 
n> nearly all of it is black and white.

n> I guess my question is this.  With the technology advancing rapidly, 
n> and the latest equipment still just slightly behind the curve,   Are there any rumors about
n> perfecting digital printing for black and white?  What do you think 
n> is on the near horizon in this realm?


Just like the "old techniques" digital B&W printing is not now, nor
will it ever be, a "plug & play", push-a-button situation. At least
not if you want top-quality results. On top of deciding upon printer
and inks, papers, etc. is learning the complete proper workflow from
scanning, to the various options and steps of post-scan processing in
preparing and creating your "digital negative" for printing, and then
in the printing itself.

n> would it make more sense to wait a year?

Start now and you'll have a year under your belt learning, practicing
and perfecting your technique while you try and experiment with
different papers, drivers, curves, inks, and so forth---instead of
waiting for that elusive "right" time to jump in.

Not only that but once you start to get it down, even with today's
current technology, I think you'll be pretty darn surprised on what
amazing results can indeed be achieved now.

Best regards,
 Richard  

mailto:richard@...